Former Sharks assistant coach Brent Janse van Rensburg has joined Bath with immediate effect to oversee the struggling Premiership team’s defence.

The experienced coach has agreed on a short-term deal that will have him complete the 2021-22 season with the Blue, Black and Whites.

Van Rensburg arrived in the UK this week and will isolate for 10 days before joining the team.

Van Rensburg’s professional coaching career kicked off in 2008 when he served as a technical advisor to the Border Bulldogs and he most recently helped the Sharks reach the 2021 Currie Cup final.

At the Sharks, Van Rensburg served as defence and kicking coach and before that held the role of head coach at the Pumas, Griquas, Boland Cavaliers and EP Kings, respectively.

He requested an early release from his Sharks contract in June.

“We made it clear following our review outcome that we intended to bring in a specific defence coach who could add to our group immediately,” director of rugby Stuart Hooper said.

“We are excited to welcome Brent to the club and look forward to the impact he can have on our defence.”

On joining the Blue, Black and Whites, Van Rensburg said: “Bath is a great club, with a clear vision and a lot of promise for great rewards to be seen in the future.”

Outgoing Munster head coach Johann van Graan has also been linked with a move to Bath, once his contract with the Irish club ends in June 2022.